Roger Federer has called for a historic merger of the ATP and WTA world tour into one organisation.
The 20-time grand slam champion, who is one of the leading names on the ATP Players Council, took to twitter to call for a merger between the ATP and WTA world tour.
During the Coronavirus pandemic, the ATP and WTA have worked together alongside the ITF to try and create an initiative to give lower-ranked players financial support, the package is set to be worth 6million dollars.
In addition they have also worked together to release a social media show called ‘Tennis United’, hosted by Bethanie Mattek-Sands and Vasek Pospisil.
However this recent united front by the ATP and WTA was taken to whole new level today when Federer called for the two organisation to merge into one.
On Twitter, Federer said the following, “Just wondering…..am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis to be united and come together as one?,” Federer stated.
“It probably should have happened a long time ago, but maybe now is really the time. These are tough times in every sport and we can come out of this with 2 weakened bodies or 1 stronger body.”
This call for a merged and united calls has been backed up by fellow ATP Council leader Rafael Nadal, who revealed that discussions are already underway, “As you know per our discussions I completely agree that it would be great to get out of this world crisis with the union of men’s and women’s tennis in one only organisation,” Nadal said on Twitter.
This idea has been backed by many WTA stars with Garbine Muguruza, Petra Kvitová and Belinda Bencic amongst those to support the idea.
Yes, would be a good idea https://t.co/Xu9AXLFX7z
— Garbiñe Muguruza (@GarbiMuguruza) April 22, 2020
https://twitter.com/Petra_Kvitova/status/1252964573826756608
Yes!! https://t.co/C14dQNYUDg
— Belinda Bencic (@BelindaBencic) April 22, 2020
It’s a positive initiative that shows the WTA and the ATP are willing to work together in what is unprecedented circumstances.
However, negotiations will see both sides wanting to get what they want with practical concerns such as equal scheduling, resources and prize money distribution being some of the many obstacles for the ATP and WTA will face.
As for now though, Tennis is looking to stand united while there is no action on-court.
